National Health Fellows Expand Grassroots Health Interventions Across Nigeria
The National Health Fellows Programme (NHF) is spotlighting community-led interventions by young Nigerians working to address public health challenges and support stronger primary healthcare delivery.
Established by the Federal Government in 2025, the programme engages young Nigerians in identifying local health needs and developing practical responses. Its 12-month fellowship combines training, mentorship and hands-on experience, enabling participants to apply their skills to community-level challenges.
“We are pleased to see the impact Fellows are making in communities across Nigeria, translating their knowledge and skills into practical solutions to address public health challenges. From improving primary healthcare facilities to promoting disease prevention and health awareness, these interventions reflect the commitment of young Nigerians to creating meaningful change. We are encouraged by their contributions and remain committed to supporting young people in driving solutions that improve health outcomes and strengthen healthcare delivery across the country.”
— Dr. Ashiru Adamu Abubakar, Technical Assistant to the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare on Sector-wide Approach
Across the country, Fellows are developing projects tailored to the needs of their communities. In Gboko, Borno State, one Fellow is supporting solar-powered vaccine storage at a primary healthcare facility, helping address electricity challenges that can affect vaccine preservation. In Idumuje-Unor, Delta State, a Fellow is advancing a solar power intervention for a primary healthcare facility. In Iyame, Ondo State, another is working to revitalise a primary healthcare centre through community advocacy and support for essential medical equipment.
Other projects focus on infrastructure. In Op Base, Okoroete and Iko Town, Akwa Ibom, Fellows are supporting laboratory upgrades. In Oke-Agogo, Oyo State, a Fellow is facilitating a waiting shelter and solar streetlight to improve the healthcare facility environment.
Fellows are also working on disease prevention and public health education. In Goniri, Borno State, a project focuses on safe water and cholera prevention. In Jos South, a Fellow is supporting tuberculosis referrals to help connect people with appropriate care, while in Essien Udim, Akwa Ibom, a Fellow is focused on screening for non-communicable diseases.
Together, the projects span health education, disease prevention, facility improvements and community well-being.
Fellow Abubakar Hamza said the experience had strengthened his skills, knowledge and commitment to improving primary healthcare services.
“During the National Health Fellows Programme, I learned valuable lessons in leadership, teamwork, stakeholder engagement, community mobilization, data management, and problem-solving skills, while developing practical solutions to improve healthcare delivery”
With more than 400,000 applications received across two cohorts and interventions spanning over 700 communities, the National Health Fellows Programme continues to mobilise young Nigerians to address local health challenges and contribute to stronger primary healthcare delivery.
